Tips for First-Time Homebuyers

Most homebuyers start the process anxious, excited, nervous, and some are downright terrified. It’s natural. A home is the largest and most expensive purchase that most people will make in a lifetime. It can either turn out to be a complete financial disaster or a smart long-term investment.

The person standing between it being a huge financial mistake or a valuable asset is you, the agent. Still, the agent can only help as much as the buyer allows. As vital as having an experienced agent by their side is, there are things that first-time homebuyers have to do.

Here is a list of tips to help first-time homebuyers help you the agent do the best job that you can do. When you are approached by a first-time homebuyer, share this list with them to help them get off on the right foot.

Make Lists: Write out a list of the things that you want and a list of the things that you need in a new home. Share this list with your agent so that they can better help find what you are looking for. Update or add to your list as you think of things and share those changes with your agent.

Keep Notes: Your agent is going to keep solid records of the homes that you see. However you should also keep your own notes as you go to open houses. After each home, share what you liked and what you didn’t like with your agent. That will help him or her narrow the search down for you.

Organize Your Documents: Keep your documents organized and all in one place. If you have a pre-approval letter, keep that with you on house hunts in case you decide to make an offer. Any documents that you will need like inspection reports or appraisals should be readily available as you search for homes.

Stay Positive: Maybe the most important tip for first-time homebuyers is to stay positive. Even after you have found the home that you want, made an offer, and had it accepted, the process of closing the deal can sometimes take longer than you’d like. Stay positive. If you’ve looked at several houses and still haven’t found what you want, stay calm. Trust your agent to get it right for you.

Speaking with an Agent

An agent for first-time homebuyers is an invaluable asset. They can help you navigate the process when you are unsure of what to do next. You could call and speak with an agent if you have general questions. However, if you are ready to seriously start shopping for a home, you need an agent now. Feel free to contact agent with your specific questions.

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ABOUT SITKA - Nestled on Baranof Island between the mountains and the Pacific Ocean rests the City and Borough of Sitka – one of the most curious and scenic places in all the world. Encompassing the 2,847 square miles of Baranof Island, Sitka is actually the largest city in the United States but has only 17 miles of road and a population just under 9,000.

Established in 1799, Sitka was also the capital of Russian America and the U.S. Alaska Territory until 1900 when the capital was transferred to Juneau. Warmed by the ocean, Sitka has a surprisingly temperate climate for its northern latitude. On average only 33 inches of snow falls each year over a 19 day period and only 10 days see a high below freezing making this an ideal climate for the lush rainforest that carpets Baranof Island.

Sitka is a majestic community diverse in natural beauty and culture. This community is our home. Sitka is where we raise our families, work, play, and enjoy one of the most beautiful, awe-inspiring locations in the world.

We are proud of our history and cordially invite you to experience what we feel is the best in Sitka real estate.